Manslaughter? Player Arrested in Death of Adam Johnson

According to Sky Sports, the player whose skate blade fatally cut Adam Johhnson’s neck in an English Elite Ice Hockey League is being held by police on suspicion of manslaughter chargers. Johnson died on Oct. 28 as a result of the injury suffered when his Nottingham Panthers faced the Sheffield Steelers.

Matt Petgrave, 31, is the player being held. In North America, he played for several AHL teams, including the Syracuse Crunch and Laval Rockets, as well as numerous ECHL teams. He also participated in the 3v3 league last summer.

The league temporarily shut down and strongly encouraged all players to wear neck and wrist guards. Many NHL players have begun experimenting with them, as well. In the days following the tragedy, the Pittsburgh Penguins mandated their minor league players wear the guards.

Johnson’s former teams, including the Penguins, paid tribute with celebrations of life.

South Yorkshire police have been investigating the incident.

“We have been speaking to highly specialized experts in their field to assist in our inquiries and continue to work closely with the health and safety department at Sheffield City Council, which is supporting our ongoing investigation,” police told the British outlet.

An inquest was opened and closed on Nov. 3.

“Adam’s death has sent shockwaves through many communities, from our local residents here in Sheffield to ice hockey fans across the world. We know these communities will expect us to handle this investigation with the same professionalism, fairness, and sensitivity as any other and request that members of the public refrain from comment and speculation which could hinder this process.”